Gordon Bartlett has added two more pieces to his Wealdstone jigsaw ahead of the new season, with the double capture of former Watford starlets Kieron Forbes and Marvin McCoy.

Central midfielder Forbes and former Hereford loanee and Luton Town trialist McCoy, a right fullback, put pen to paper at Grosvenor Vale earlier this week.

"I actually wanted Kieron last year," added Bartlett of Forbes, who turns 18 this month. "I had Dale Bennett and Liam Henderson on loan from Watford last season but you are not allowed to have three. I'm glad I've finally been able to get him, he has a lot of tenacity."

Despite his new acquisitions, Bartlett is bracing himself for the possible loss of goalkeeper Richard Barnard, who was given the green light to try out for Conference outfit Weymouth. However, should Barnard impress the south coast club, Bartlett could have a ready-made replacement in

the shape of Sean Thomas.

The 20-year-old, who enjoyed a loan spell with Stones last season, has been released by the cash-rich Championship side and played in Stones' 1-1 draw at Enfield on Tuesday, with David Hicks opening the scoring before a contentious penalty spared the hosts' blushes.

Stones beat North Greenford United 4-1 on Saturday, thanks to goals from Stephen Hughes, Hicks and substitutes Wayne Reid and Derek Quaye before a young side came from behind twice, only to lose 3-2 at Burnham on Monday.

"All the players are getting good time under their belts and it is helping me make decisions," commented the manager, who revealed that he has refused offers from five players this week.

"I'm pleased with what we've got here and don't want to spoil the good spirit." [25a0] On Saturday Wealdstone entertain Hemel Hempstead at the Vale, kick-off 3pm.